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Abstract

When resources are scarce, libraries have three basic options, which can be conducted in combination or separately, to bring them into balance: Seek additional funds, reduce expenses, and identify more efficient modes of operation. The authors explore whether, and if so how, the factors that consume or contribute resources — and the tradeoffs inherent in each option — may affect the sufficiency of resources needed by Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh (CLP) to meet its mission. The authors suggest nine opportunities that are related to sustainable funding for CLP to explore with the help of a commission to assess their viability.

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The research described in this report was prepared for Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh and was conducted by RAND Education, a unit of the RAND Corporation.

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